Energy Science and Research

One of the major societal challenges today relates to climate change, where it has become evident that it is necessary to reduce CO2 emissions for a more sustainable planet by pursuing and relying on alternative energy sources.

Learn more about Energy Science

The School of Engineering is keen on supporting and enhancing EPFL’s leadership in Energy Science, where EPFL is currently ranked #4 in the World according to the 2022 Shanghai Rankings.

Our experts

Our experts works, for example, in Thermal Transport and Energy, in Energy Storage Systems, in Battery Materials, in Hydropower, and in Energy Storage Systems. Learn more about the professors working on Energy Science.

Our laboratories

The School of Engineering favors an integrated approach toward technologies for sustainable energy sources and carbon neutrality and aims to continue to strengthen its presence in the core domains of power and energy systems, hydropower, photovoltaics, energy storage technologies, synthetic fuels, and biofuels.

Our Spinoffs

Explore the exciting frontier of sustainable technologies through our groundbreaking startups. These dynamic ventures, nurtured within our ecosystem, are driving transformative solutions to reshape the energy landscape.

Centers

We’re proud partners with EPFL’s leading centers dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions. These collaborative hubs are at the forefront of research, driving innovations in renewable energy, smart grids, and beyond.

Education

Discover the unparalleled opportunities for education, research, and hands-on experience that the School of Engineering offers. Join the next generation of energy pioneers and contribute to a world powered by cutting-edge solutions.

NEWS

Discover the latest strides in Energy Science at the School of Engineering. Our expert teams in diverse fields are driving innovations with a singular goal – positive societal impact. Explore the latest news on our groundbreaking work in renewable energy, efficiency, and more, as we shape a cleaner and sustainable tomorrow.

The triple-junction solar cell (54 cm2). © Kerem Artuk

Record efficiency for perovskite-silicon triple-junction solar cells

— EPFL and CSEM researchers have achieved a record 30% efficiency for triple-junction solar cells, which combine two thin-film perovskite cells and one silicon cell on a single device. The milestone could advance affordable next-generation solar technologies for space and terrestrial applications.

© iStock

Nanodevice produces continuous electricity from evaporation

— A nanodevice developed at EPFL produces an autonomous, stable current from evaporating saltwater by using heat and light to control the movement of ions and electrons.

© iStock

Slippery ions create a smoother path to blue energy

— By engineering lubricated interfaces inside nanopores, EPFL researchers have enabled ions to flow through a nanofluidic membrane with unprecedented speed and control. In addition to enhancing nanofluidic technologies, the innovation could help accelerate the development of next-generation osmotic energy harvesting.

© iStock

When heat flows like water

— EPFL researchers have shown theoretically that, in highly ordered materials, heat can flow toward warmer regions without violating the laws of thermodynamics. Their work could help design electronics that minimize heat loss.

Left to right: Sophia Haussener, Li Tang, and Maryam Kamgarpour. 2025 EPFL CC BY SA

Three STI Professors win ERC Consolidator Grants

— EPFL School of Engineering professors Sophia Haussener, Maryam Kamgarpour, and Li Tang have been awarded prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grants.

All news

VIDEOS

Watch some videos showcasing insights from our brilliant experts, dedicated research teams, and dynamic startups at the forefront of transformative energy solutions. Get ready to unravel the future of sustainable technologies and join us in shaping a greener, more efficient world.

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